As Etihad Cargo, the logistics arm of Etihad Airways, celebrated its one-year milestone in Osaka, Japan, the company highlighted its significant market presence and contributions to the local economy. Since beginning operations in 2024, Etihad Cargo has managed an impressive 7,440 tons of cargo from Japan, with 2,911 tons passing through Osaka. This figure represents a remarkable 39.1% of the airline’s total Japanese throughput. The airline operates ten weekly flights from Japan, including three from Osaka and seven from Tokyo, facilitating connections to over 100 global destinations via Abu Dhabi. This achievement marks a significant step forward in the logistics industry, further demonstrating the versatility and efficiency of Etihad Cargo’s operations.
Commitment to Innovation and Reliability
Specialized Services: AirMail and SecureTech
One of the key themes that have driven Etihad Cargo’s success in Japan is its unwavering commitment to innovation and reliability in airfreight solutions. Stanislas Brun, Vice President of Cargo, emphasized the importance of these attributes in maintaining and growing the airline’s market presence. Over the past year, the introduction of specialized services like AirMail has proven to be a game-changer. The service experienced an impressive 125.8% year-on-year growth in Japan and a staggering 208% increase in Osaka alone. This remarkable performance attests to the effectiveness of the product in meeting the evolving needs of the market.
In addition to AirMail, Etihad Cargo’s SecureTech product has been vital in transporting high-value lithium battery-powered electronics, which are crucial to various industries. Osaka contributes 20.8% to Japan’s total SecureTech tonnage, highlighting the city’s significant demand for this specialized service. The SecureTech product, certified by the IATA CEIV-LiBatt, ensures the safe and efficient transportation of these sensitive products. This focus on specialized services has allowed Etihad Cargo to adapt to the unique demands of the Japanese market, paving the way for sustained growth and success.
Impact on Local Economy
Etihad Cargo’s operations have become a cornerstone in supporting Japan’s economy. The airline plays a particularly important role in the transportation of key commodities such as automotive parts, electronics, machinery parts, and gaming consoles. Utilizing its IATA CEIV-LiBatt-certified SecureTech product, Etihad Cargo ensures these critical components reach their destinations safely and efficiently. The city of Osaka, in particular, benefits from the transportation of a diverse range of industrial goods, including textile raw materials and ship parts, reflecting the city’s varied economic activities.
The airline’s digital transformation initiatives have also borne fruit, with electronic Air Waybill (e-AWB) penetration reaching 90% in Osaka and 87% across Japan. Additionally, bookings via the airline’s online portal have seen significant growth. These advances in digital transformation not only streamline operations but also offer customers more efficient and reliable service options. By leveraging these digital tools, Etihad Cargo enhances its ability to meet the increasingly complex demands of the global logistics industry.
Aligning with Japan’s Economic Growth
Japan’s Technological Advancements
Japan’s robust economic growth, driven by technological advancements and international trade, aligns perfectly with the ethos of Etihad Cargo. The airline boasts a high On-Time Performance (OTP) and delivers quality services consistently, which make it a reliable partner in Japan’s logistics sector. The Road Feeder Service (RFS) network, an integral part of Etihad Cargo’s operations, efficiently connects major ports across Japan. This network ensures timely and seamless transportation of goods, thereby supporting the broader economic infrastructure.
In addition to its logistical prowess, Etihad Cargo has invested in skilled sales and customer service teams positioned to address the nuanced needs of the Japanese market. These teams play a crucial role in maintaining customer satisfaction and ensuring that the airline continues to provide top-notch service. Their expertise and dedication allow Etihad Cargo to offer tailored solutions that meet the specific requirements of its diverse clientele in Japan.
Looking Ahead to the 2025 World Expo
As Etihad Cargo, the logistics division of Etihad Airways, celebrated one year of operations in Osaka, Japan, it underscored its significant market presence and contributions to the local economy. Since commencing services in 2024, Etihad Cargo has handled an impressive 7,440 tons of cargo from Japan, with Osaka accounting for 2,911 tons. This impressive figure represents 39.1% of the airline’s total cargo throughput from Japan. The airline maintains a busy schedule with ten weekly flights from Japan: three from Osaka and seven from Tokyo. These flights facilitate seamless connections to over 100 global destinations through its hub in Abu Dhabi. This milestone signifies a major advancement in the logistics sector, showcasing Etihad Cargo’s operational versatility and efficiency. As the company continues to strengthen its market presence, it remains committed to enhancing global trade and supply chain logistics, further solidifying its role as a key player in the industry and contributing positively to the Japanese economy.
